How far should my lighting be off the water?

[reefyguy]

I have 4 250 watt hqi and 4 t5's hood. How far should that be off the water?

[luke33]

I use to run my halides from 6-12" from the surface. Preferable around 8-10" imo.

[moocow]

far enough away to not collect Evap.
And then at what ever height your corals and such may like best.

[compulsivebasta]

I keep mine approx 4' from the top of the water. You just have to occasionally wipe down any salt spray.

[shuskins]

most people recommend around 8-10" although depends on intensity and whatnot. I use dual 175w and keep them about 7.75" above the tank so probably 8.25-8.5" above water